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Chennai is preparing to expand its electric bus services, with the second phase of the programme expected to begin soon from the Alandur depot. Transport Minister A Vijay Tamilan Parthiban recently inspected the upgraded depot and reviewed the facilities being prepared for the launch of the new electric buses.
Chennai's Electric Buses to Start Services at Alandur Depot
The Alandur depot has been upgraded for Rs 30.43 crore, with improvements including facilities for operating electric buses and charging infrastructure. During his visit, the minister checked the depot's various sections and reviewed whether the charging systems were ready for the new fleet.
Under the second phase, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) plans to introduce 750 new low-floor electric buses. These buses will operate from seven depots across Chennai. The depots are located at Alandur, Central Workshop-2, Perambur, Padiyanallur, Avadi, KK Nagar and Iyyappanthangal.
The second phase is part of the Chennai City Partnership-Sustainable Urban Services Programme. The World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) are supporting the project. One of its main aims is to reduce pollution caused by public transport and promote cleaner mobility in the city.
The new fleet will add to the 625 electric buses already introduced during the first phase. These buses are currently operating from depots at Vyasarpadi, Perumbakkam, Poovirundhavalli, Central Workshop and Tondiarpet-1.
The second phase is expected to improve Chennai's public transport system by providing more environmentally friendly buses. Adding more electric buses will also reduce dependence on conventional diesel-powered buses and help improve air quality in the city.
With the Alandur depot now upgraded and charging facilities being prepared, Chennai is moving closer to the launch of the second phase of its electric bus programme.